Top 3 European-inspired Holiday Cocktails

The holiday season is officially here! In Austin, it usually doesn’t get chilly until December, and this year has been no exception…and that means it’s finally time for holiday parties.

Everyone knows that the most important part of any holiday party is the signature cocktail – and we want to share 3 of our absolute favorite European-inspired holiday cocktails you can make the next time you’re around the fire with friends! We’ve also paired them with some amazing cozy pieces we have in-store now that are sure to *spark* conversation.

Gluhwein

Every Christmas one of our best German friends drops off bottles of gluhwein at our door – and usually comes in to have a cup. Gluhwein is made by heating red wine with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, star anise, citrus, sugar, and sometimes vanilla. Our friend’s recipe is “mit schuss” or, “with a shot” – in his opinion, the only way to drink it!

5oz gluhwein
1.5oz apple brandy or rum
Heat ingredients in a small pot or kettle on stove (don’t boil!) and pour into a mug – serve hot.

Sit and sip your gluhwein while admiring this French 1950’s buffet in polished macassar. The brass trimmings, satinwood inlays, ebonized legs, chevron patterned marquetry and bright satinwood interior is sure to spark conversation.

The Holly

It’s no secret that we love Champagne. Who doesn’t?! But if you’ve ever had St. Germain (a French elderflower liquor), you’ll know the two were made for each other. We like to serve The Holly as an aperitif during the holidays with some chilled pomegranate seeds as a fun festive touch.

1oz St. Germain
Champagne (or dry sparkling white or rose wine)
5-10 chilled pomegranate seeds
Combine chilled Champagne and St. Germain in a champagne flute. Sprinkle pomegranate seeds in drink to finish.

Serve The Holly on this vintage French bar cart by Maison Baguès. Gilt brass faux bamboo and smoked glass come together in a sharp, flawless mid-century piece sure to bring your cocktails to life.

Irish Coffee

This one’s a classic – and in our opinion, nothing else warms you up on a cold night quite like this – adding a festive straw really creates some “wow” factor!

1 tsp brown sugar
1.5oz Irish whiskey
Brewed coffee
Fresh whipped cream & chocolate shavings
Stir brown sugar and coffee together in a clear mug until sugar dissolves. Stir in whiskey and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

Cozy up with your Irish coffee in this vintage green leather english chesterfield armchair with tufted leather upholstery, brass tacks, rolled arms, and round wooden feet.

Before hosting your next holiday party, come visit us on West 6th street in Austin and let us make sure your decor matches your drinks!

Sante!